There’s no road trip quite like the Pacific Coast Highway. Its dramatic ocean cliffs, towering redwoods, iconic beach towns, and endless horizon views make it a dream destination for RV travelers. But instead of settling for a cookie-cutter itinerary, why not build your own unforgettable journey?
This ultimate guide is designed to help you create a custom RV road trip down the Pacific Coast Highway, from the lush rainforests of Washington to the sun-soaked shores of San Diego. With flexible modules, RV-specific advice, and top campground recommendations, this is your go-to resource for planning the trip of a lifetime.
Planning Your Ultimate PCH RV Adventure
Before you hit the road, a little preparation can go a long way.
Choosing Your RV: RVs under 30 feet are easier to handle and can access campgrounds with length restrictions. Class B and C motorhomes or compact travel trailers are ideal for the winding sections along California’s Highway 1.
Reservations & Budgeting: Reserve early, especially for in-demand locations like Big Sur, Santa Cruz, and Oregon’s coastal state parks. Campground rates typically range from $40–$90 per night. Expect higher prices at premium coastal locations and private RV resorts.
Essential Apps & Resources: Download iOverlander and FreeCampsites.net to find RV-friendly stops. Use AllTrails to discover hiking opportunities, and check CalTrans (roads.dot.ca.gov) for live road updates, which are especially important due to the 2024 Big Sur road closures from storm damage.
The Full PCH Route: A State-by-State RV Guide
Washington (Approx. 325 Miles): Rainforests and Rugged Coasts
This lush, green leg kicks off the journey with misty forests and wild beaches.
Key Stops & Sights: Start in Port Townsend, then travel through Sequim and Port Angeles, gateways to Olympic National Park. Visit Hurricane Ridge, Hoh Rain Forest, and Second Beach. Continue west to Forks and end at Cape Flattery, the northwesternmost point in the continental U.S.
Top RV Campgrounds:
- Crescent Beach and RV Park – Private beachfront access near Olympic NP.
- Quileute Oceanside Resort – Near La Push with incredible beach views.
- Hoquiam River RV Park – A quiet stop before heading south to Oregon.
Oregon (Approx. 363 Miles): Dunes, Capes, and Scenic Corridors
Oregon’s coastline is a paradise of towering sea stacks, sand dunes, and fishing towns.
Key Stops & Sights: In Astoria, explore Lewis & Clark’s history. Then cruise to Cannon Beach for iconic Haystack Rock. Drive the scenic Three Capes Route near Tillamook, explore Newport’s aquarium, and adventure across the Oregon Dunes. Don’t miss the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor near Brookings.
Top RV Campgrounds:
- Lewis & Clark RV Park – Clean, full-hookup sites in Astoria.
- Cape Kiwanda RV Park – Walkable to beaches and tidepools.
- Seal Rocks RV Cove – Stunning coastal views near Newport.
- Sun Outdoors Coos Bay – Ideal base for exploring the dunes.
Northern California: Avenue of the Giants
Here, towering redwoods meet misty ocean shores in a quieter, awe-inspiring stretch.
Key Stops & Sights: Explore Crescent City and Klamath before entering Redwood National and State Parks. Drive the majestic Avenue of the Giants, visit Eureka for its Victorian charm, and unwind in Mendocino and Fort Bragg, home to Glass Beach.
Top RV Campgrounds:
- Mystic Forest RV Park – Wooded and peaceful near Klamath.
- Burlington Campground – Located right on the Avenue of the Giants.
- MacKerricher State Park – Beachfront camping with walking trails.
Central California (San Francisco to Santa Barbara): The Iconic Highway 1
This stretch is what most imagine when they hear “Pacific Coast Highway.” It has winding roads, epic views, and iconic California towns.
Key Stops & Sights: Visit the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and grab RV-friendly parking near Crissy Field. Continue to Santa Cruz, Monterey (don’t miss the Monterey Bay Aquarium), and Carmel. Big Sur’s cliffs, waterfalls, and Bixby Bridge await next. Further south, explore San Simeon’s Hearst Castle, Morro Bay, and the Danish-style village of Solvang.
Top RV Campgrounds:
- Marin Park – Near San Francisco with full hookups.
- Veterans Memorial Park (Monterey) – Affordable and scenic.
- Big Sur Campground and Cabins – Nestled under the redwoods.
- San Simeon State Park – Walking distance to the beach.
- Pismo Coast Village RV Resort – Full-service resort near the pier.
Southern California (Santa Barbara to San Diego): Sun, Surf, and Cities
As the landscape flattens and temperatures rise, soak in SoCal’s laid-back beach culture and bustling cities.
Key Stops & Sights: Visit Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara, cruise through Malibu, then dive into Los Angeles with stops at Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach. Further south, hit Long Beach, Huntington Beach, Dana Point (the official terminus of CA-1), and finally San Diego, home to beaches, Balboa Park, and the world-famous zoo.
Top RV Campgrounds:
- Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park – Clean and close to town.
- Dockweiler RV Park – Unique beachfront parking next to LAX.
- Golden Shore RV Resort – A hidden gem in Long Beach.
- Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay – Premium resort with pools.
- Surf & Turf RV Park – Budget-friendly and near the beach.
Build Your Trip: Sample PCH RV Itineraries
Whether you’re taking a long weekend or a month off, these sample itineraries will help you mix and match the perfect route.
The 5-Day Central Coast Classic: Start in Monterey and loop through Big Sur, San Simeon, Morro Bay, and Santa Barbara. Ideal for short trips with big coastal views and manageable drives.
The 10-Day California Dreamin’: A one-way journey from San Francisco to San Diego, covering top destinations like Carmel, Big Sur, Los Angeles, and San Diego with a few beach days built in.
The 3-Week Full Pull Adventure: Go all-in from Port Townsend, WA, to San Diego, CA. Dedicate 5–6 days to each state, explore national parks, coastal towns, and major cities. Perfect for those with time to savor it all.
Your Pacific Coast Adventure Awaits
The Pacific Coast Highway is more than just a scenic route; it’s a journey through the heart of the West Coast. From the moss-covered forests in the north to the palm-lined beaches in the south, every mile offers new sights, flavors, and memories. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a month-long adventure, this guide will help you chart your own course.
So grab the wheel, choose your stops, and start planning your unforgettable RV adventure today.
Essential PCH RV Trip FAQs
Can you drive an RV on the Pacific Coast Highway?
Yes, but with caution. RVs can absolutely navigate the PCH, especially rigs under 30 feet. Some stretches, particularly Big Sur, feature narrow, winding roads and steep drop-offs. A smaller RV will make accessing viewpoints and state park campgrounds easier. North-to-south is the preferred direction for unobstructed coastal views.
What is the best time of year for a PCH RV trip?
Mid-February through April is ideal for fewer crowds and spring wildflowers, while summer and early fall offer the best weather. Just be prepared for more traffic and book your campgrounds far in advance during peak months.
How many days do you need for a PCH RV trip?
A short highlight tour can take 3–5 days, especially if you focus on one region. To fully explore the entire PCH, from Washington to San Diego, plan for 2–3 weeks. This guide helps you scale your trip to any length.
What is the ‘333 Rule’ for RV travel?
This RV-friendly guideline suggests that you should drive no more than 300 miles per day, arrive at your destination by 3 PM, and stay at least three nights in one location. This approach helps prevent burnout and allows you to fully enjoy each destination.
Useful Planning Resources:
- CalTrans Road Conditions
- Olympic National Park
- Redwood National & State Parks
- Oregon State Parks
- Hearst Castle
- Big Sur Travel Info
- San Diego Activities
- Free Campsites Database
- AllTrails Hiking Maps